Darren John Crabb

Highly experienced Operations and Production professional with over 30 years' experience across FMCG, manufacturing, warehousing, logistics and distribution, including more than 15 years in management and leadership positions. Proven ability to lead teams of over 50 employees, manage production and warehouse operations, improve efficiency, reduce costs and deliver continuous improvement initiatives. Experienced in production planning, warehouse management, transport coordination, stock control, health and safety compliance and implementing business-wide operational change.

Recognised for improving productivity, developing high-performing teams and delivering excellent customer service while maintaining the highest operational standards.

Operations Team Leader - Offset Printing & Packaging

(2023-08)

• Lead the day-to-day operation of a busy printing and packaging manufacturing department.
• Plan and coordinate daily and weekly production schedules to ensure customer orders are completed on time and in line with business priorities.
• Monitor production capacity, allocate labour and resources, and adjust schedules to maximise efficiency while minimising downtime.
• Work closely with warehouse, logistics and production teams to ensure the smooth flow of materials and finished products.
• Coordinate staffing levels to meet production targets, quality standards and customer deadlines.
• Identify production bottlenecks and implement process improvements to increase productivity and reduce waste.
• Lead shift handovers and daily production meetings.
• Ensure compliance with Health & Safety, quality standards and company procedures.
• Coach, mentor and develop team members through regular performance management and training.

Operations Team Leader - Polypipe, Aylesford

(2022-06 - 2023-07)

• Managed operational teams within a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Planned staffing and production activities to maximise efficiency.
• Ensured Health & Safety and quality standards were maintained.
• Worked closely with production and logistics departments to meet customer demand.
• Supported continuous improvement initiatives across the operation.

Yard Supervisor - Parker Building Supplies, Tonbridge

(2020-08 - 2022-05)

• Managed all yard operations, deliveries and customer collections.
• Coordinated transport movements and maximised yard efficiency.
• Successfully implemented Microsoft Dynamics NAV across the yard operation.
• Delivered training to employees on new systems and procedures.
• Conducted staff performance reviews and supported employee development.
• Worked closely with transport providers to improve vehicle turnaround and customer service.
• Completed month-end stock reconciliations and operational reporting.

Yard Manager - H+H UK Ltd

(2019-01 - 2020-07)

• Managed the day-to-day operation of the yard within a busy manufacturing environment.
• Planned transport movements and coordinated logistics with external hauliers.
• Managed recruitment, training and performance reviews.
• Introduced new Health & Safety procedures and operating standards.
• Investigated accidents, near misses and operational issues, implementing corrective actions.
• Worked closely with HR, Production, Directors, suppliers and transport providers.
• Improved storage utilisation and operational efficiency.

Warehouse Area Controller - Macks Ltd (FreshPlus)

(2014-11 - 2018-11)

• Managed warehouse and transport office operations within a fast-moving FMCG environment.
• Led 16 Team Leaders and over 30 warehouse operatives.
• Coordinated warehouse planning, transport scheduling and third-party storage.
• Managed stock control using SAP and RENS systems.
• Updated Standard Operating Procedures and operational documentation.
• Worked alongside external auditors to maintain compliance.
• Managed dispatch requirements for temperature-controlled products.
• Liaised with production, engineering, transport providers and commercial departments.

Warehouse Team Leader - Macks Ltd (FreshPlus)

(2006-04 - 2014-11)

• Supervised warehouse operations and led operational teams.
• Managed inventory accuracy and warehouse workflow.
• Ensured operational targets were achieved safely and efficiently.
• Promoted to Warehouse Area Controller following sustained high performance.

Warehouse Truck Driver - Macks Ltd

(2005-11 - 2006-04)

Responsible for warehouse vehicle operations, stock movement and goods handling.

Packhouse Truck Driver - Macks Ltd

(1998-09 - 2005-11)

Operated forklift trucks and supported warehouse and production operations.

Banana Warehouse Area Controller - Macks Ltd

(1996-06 - 1998-09)

Managed warehouse operations and inventory within the banana warehouse.

Warehouse Operative - Lenham Storage

(1992-07 - 1996-06)

Started my logistics career within warehouse operations before progressing into supervisory and management positions.